Wireless Pedestrian Crossing ('PANDA') System - Implementation

A PANDA Crossing System comprises is basically comprised of two elements, ie:

• active (flashing) warning beacons, supplied as
  • pole mounted PANDA beacon units (Type A or type B)
  • optional in-road flashing beacons (IRADs) 
• activation system/s
  • Timed - activates crossing warning lights based on time of day/day of week
    (eg for School Zones)
  • On-Demand - activates crossing warning lights as requested, using either a handheld remote control or a building mounted (remote) wireless control
  • Automated - activates crossing warning lights based on either cars approaching the crossing, or pedestrians approaching the crossing

The PANDA beacon units are generally installed on the road-side, 6-20 metres in advance of the crossing. They are also generally installed in pairs, ie one for each side of the road (facing on-coming traffic).

They are supplied as two types, where:

• Type A beacons, which have both the flashing lights on top of sign
  (these are generally fitted behind standard round, traingular or square crossing signs)
• Type B beacons, which have one beacon on top, and one on the side
  (these are genarlly fitted to poles where the sign projects from the side of the pole)

The optional in-road beacons (IRADs) are generally installed down the road centre line (in 2 lane carriageways) as well as down the lane meakers (in 3 lane carriageways), spaced 4-6 metres apart, starting at the road-side PANDA beacons, and stopping at the crossing. 

Because PANDA operates using a security coded wireless network, multiple systems can be co-located by selecting different encyption 'keys' for each system (eg where crossings may exist on adjacent parallel or intersecting roads). They can then be activated separately using the desired activation method.  

An optional 3G module allows remote monitoring and fault finding, or system re-programming if required (eg to change flash duration, cycle times, time-outs, etc).